What is the purpose of the Balearic’s tourism tax and who does it apply to?
The main aim of the tourism tax is to compensate for the impact generated by tourist activity. It helps fund projects to improve the destination, making it more sustainable in environmental, social and economic ways.
The tax applies to all tourists over the age of 16 staying in hotels, apartments, cruise ships and licensed short-term rentals.
The rate varies depending on whether it is high or low season and there are some discounts and exemptions. For example, from the ninth day of stay in the same establishment the tax is reduced by 50%.
Where does the money from the tourism tax go? What projects does it fund?
The revenue raised from the tax is ring-fenced to offset the impact generated by tourist activity and goes directly to fund specific projects.
Sustainable Tourism Tax Projects are divided into a multitude of purposes: environment; de-seasonalisation; historical and cultural heritage; research; development and innovation; training and quality; housing; and responsible tourism.
How does the tax help make the Balearics more sustainable and improve the lives of local residents?
The tax allows for reinvestment in the islands, helping to enhance the quality of life for both residents and visitors. About €850 million is being used to fund key sustainability projects, including natural area regeneration, water cycle improvements, and energy efficiency.
One great example is the water reclamation plant in Santa Ponsa which has the capacity to produce over 20,000 cubic metres of reclaimed water. This water is then used across the municipality of Calvià for irrigating private gardens, parks, street cleaning, toilet cisterns, sports fields, golf courses and agricultural irrigation.
Over €4 million in sustainable tax funds has been invested in increasing the currently available water resources for the long-term benefit of local residents.
What advice would you give to travel agents to help them explain the value of the tourism tax to their clients?
Agents can explain that this small contribution helps protect and preserve the Balearic Islands for future generations. Tourists can see the benefits of their contribution through visible improvements and projects on the islands.
Our visitors play a major role in ensuring modernised infrastructures, environmental protection and heritage conservation for theirs and their families’ future holidays. Then there is the positive impact to the lives of residents who call the islands home.
Are there any new developments or attractions in the Balearics for this year or next?
Yes, there are many new projects, products, hotels and services. The islands always offer something new to discover. We encourage British visitors to explore the islands during the low season (October to March), when it’s more peaceful and ideal for activities like hiking, culture, sports and gastronomy.
We recently inaugurated a number of new hiking routes such as the East Mallorca GR-225 which covers a distance of 104 kilometres, and the seven new Pequeños Recorridos (short trails) on Ibiza which are all great options for the low season away from the heat.
Along the East Mallorca route, we have also invested in a project to build a refuge at the Finca Galatzó with 12 rooms for hikers trekking through the UNESCO-designated Serra de Tramuntana Mountain Range.
Are there opportunities for UK travel agents to learn more about the Balearics, such as fam trips, training or events?
Yes, we have a website with detailed information and user-friendly tools to help agents learn more about the islands and our sustainable tourism efforts.
We organise many sports and cultural events, mainly in the low season, such as the Camí de Cavalls in Menorca. There are also concerts and competitions, all promoted through our website. We will be working closely with the UK travel trade moving forward.
Is there anything else you’d like agents to know?
Just a positive message—visitors are always welcome in the Balearic Islands. We want everyone to enjoy the destination as it deserves to be and our visitors are so important to protecting our beautiful islands for generations to come.
